Developing Brooklyn: Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center

Brooklyn, NY The new Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center is a landmark community project rising in the heart of East Flatbush that will serve as a welcoming neighborhood hub for local residents and families. Led by Consigli Construction Co., Inc. and Studio Gang, in coordination with NYC Department of Design & Construction (DDC) and NYC Parks, the project is part of DDC’s Design-Build pilot program, which enables faster and more efficient delivery of public projects.

Set within Nostrand Playground, the new facility will house publicly accessible amenities and resources, including a gymnasium, basketball court, indoor swimming pool, fitness and weight training rooms, and more. As part of its commitment to sustainability and wellness, the project is targeting LEED-NC Gold certification. The building will feature a wrap-around green roof, and its façade will be comprised of large arched windows set into brick, bringing natural light and views deep inside. 

In support of NYC’s goals to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, the new center is designed with a high-performance envelope and all-electric heating and cooling, and incorporates sustainable building materials such as mass timber. 

With a strong focus on equity, the project is meeting ambitious MWBE participation goals for both design and construction phases. Once complete, the new recreation center will host programming offerings and opportunities to encourage learning, recreation and community and civic engagement.

Construction broke ground in October 2023 and is expected to be completed later this year. 

Project Info

Project Title: Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center

Project Location: 3002 Foster Avenue

Property Type: Cultural, Civic and Recreational 

Project Type: New

Year Started: 2023

Est. Date Completed: Q1 2026

Project Team

MWBE, Workforce Development Outreach, Community Construction Liaison: McKissack

Architect: Studio Gang

Engineer (Structural, Civil, Façades/Envelope): Thornton Tomasetti

Engineering (MEP, Fire Protection): WSP

General Contractor: Consigli Construction Co., Inc.

Landscape Architecture: Elizabeth Kennedy Landscape Architect

Aquatic Consultant: Wallover Architects

Sustainability Consultant: Atelier 10

Client: NYC Dept. of Design & Construction / NYC Dept. of Parks & Recreation